System-on-Chip design surrounds us everywhere – new study programme launched to match heated talent demand

Demand for System-on-Chips (SoC) expertise has heated up due to the wide use of the technology in modern societies: in phones, computers, datacentres, buildings and factories – wherever data is being processed. The demand for specialised SoC talent therefore lays a fruitful foundation for launching a new master’s programme, especially in Tampere.

“Our local Tampere region is home to a very strong industrial cluster when it comes to intelligent machines, embedded systems and telecommunications. Some of the world’s most demanding chips are developed here,” says Head of Programme, Professor of Computer Engineering Timo Hämäläinen.

As a study topic, SoC design covers a wide range. Therefore, special attention has been paid to providing students with guidance on what to study to reach a specific professional profile.

"The study modules will involve a lot of lab work, as the idea is to help students learn by doing. FPGA boards will be used in all modules for hands-on practice and to complement theory. The courses have also been carefully designed to build on each other to form a logical path," Hämäläinen says.

SoC ecosystem, 5G & 6G and exceptionally close industry relations

Tampere is one of the world’s key System-on-Chips design expertise hubs consisting of Nokia Networks as well as other companies and organisations, and some of the world’s most advanced SoC solutions are developed in the local business ecosystem. The new study programme will also benefit from the local System-on-Chip Hub, a joint effort between Tampere University and companies to design new SoCs for 6G, AI, imaging and security applications.

"Our master’s programme will provide the students with a strong basis for specialist positions in this area. Applicants can join the programme with a previous background in either computer engineering or electrical engineering. Both are well suited for the purpose, and optional studies will be provided to complement previous studies as needed," Hämäläinen says.

The staff in the master’s programme consist of teachers who have one foot in instruction and research and the other in industry application. Overall, the programme has been closely designed in cooperation with working life, and it will also be partly implemented together with company representatives.

"In addition to study contents planning, our industry relations cover guest lectures and practice work. Our purpose is to provide high technology education in a down-to-earth and student-oriented way. The main requirement for the applicants is to be willing to learn both during the programme and continuously in working life. There is plenty of work on offer and the specialist expertise also shows in the pay," Hämäläinen concludes.